The International Olympic Committee (IOC) is set to make a significant stride into the digital realm as it prepares to vote on creating the first Olympic Esports Games next month during the Paris Olympics. IOC President Thomas Bach announced the proposal on Friday, highlighting the organization’s commitment to embracing the digital revolution.
“With the creation of Olympic Esports Games, the IOC is taking a major step forward and is keeping up with the pace of the digital revolution,” Bach stated at a news conference. “We are very excited about how enthusiastically the esports community represented in our Esports Commission has engaged with this initiative. This is further proof of the attractiveness of the Olympic brand and the values it stands for.”
The proposed Olympic Esports Games aims to become the pinnacle of achievement for gamers worldwide, elevating esports to a new level within the Olympic movement. A potential host city is already under consideration, and if approved, a new structure will be established within the IOC to support the event, separate from the traditional Olympic Games’ organizational and financial model.
For several years, the IOC has been exploring opportunities within the esports arena, recognizing the growing popularity and influence of gaming among younger audiences. In 2021, it launched the Olympic Virtual Series as a pilot venture into esports. The move towards officially integrating esports reflects the IOC’s efforts to connect with new generations and diversify its audience base, which has been gradually aging.
The integration of esports into the Olympic framework signifies a progressive shift and an acknowledgment of the digital transformation impacting sports and entertainment globally. The IOC’s engagement with the esports community is expected to open new avenues for collaboration and innovation within the Olympic movement.
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IOC to vote on creation of Olympic Esports Games, says president
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